Proximate analysis, phytochemical screening, and antioxidant activity of Musa acuminata peels

Abstract

Musa acuminata peels are rich in valuable bioactive constituents that offer multiple health benefits including antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  The current study reveals that banana peels contain moisture content, ash, protein, crude fiber, carbohydrates, and fat in percentages of 13.38±0.03, 11.85±0.03, 7.59±0.02, 19.48±0.04, 23.17±0.02, and 1.21±0.02, respectively. The study conducted has revealed the existence of several beneficial phytochemicals such as phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, alkaloids and saponins except quinones and steroids. The TPC of sample was recorded as 29.24±0.04 mg GAE/g, whereas the TFC was 16.45±0.02 mg QE/g. Furthermore, the antioxidant efficacy of the peel extract was 79.09±0.03%. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified several functional groups, including hydroxyl group, amides, and alkynes. The findings of this research suggest that banana peels possess a variety of medicinal applications and serve as a significant reservoir of diverse phytochemicals.